How to analyze the level of physical activity? Arguing over classification criteria

DOI: 10.15343/0104-7809.200731.4.11

Abstract

To indicate or to recommend physical activity with any objective whatsoever in view requires first of all making precise the
criteria for classification of the desired level. Before the controversy it implies, bibliographical references of the last years regarding
the subject were re-analyzed. The criteria for inclusion of texts of periodic publications indexed in systematic databases (MEDLINE and
SPORTSDISCUS) had been: i) to contain the words “physical activity” and/or “exercise” and/or “physical capacity” in the heading and/or
the Abstract and ii) to use a questionnaire or degrees to measure physical activity. From selected papers, only remained those presenting
a direct application to health and/or the illness. Thus proceeding, fourteen texts were considered to the study. Results point to a high
variability. Remembering time and age of the studied subjects are some specificities also identified as controversial according to the
focus of the study. An instrument is emphasized tat the end, given its accessibility and potential to generate excellent information.